News
The Nautilus Maldives announces 2024 collaboration with Ananda in the Himalayas
The Nautilus, a five-star ultra-luxury private island hideaway in the Maldives, will host two senior practitioners from the world’s most renowned holistic wellness retreat, Ananda in the Himalayas from 16th to 26th August 2024. Combining Ananda’s specialist Ayurvedic knowledge with The Nautilus’s timeless hospitality offering, this residency will provide the ultimate restorative wellness experience.
Located on the Baa Atoll in the heart of the UNESCO Biosphere Reserve in the Indian Ocean, The Nautilus is renowned for its completely bespoke experience, tailoring holidays to individual needs and providing an unscripted and timeless offering. With this, the Ananda treatments will be available to guests at any time of day and will be provided in the overwater Solasta Spa’s glass-floored private treatment pavilions or in the comfort of guest’s houses and residences.
The two practitioners, Mr Sandeep Dhamada and Ms Krishna Karki, are some of Ananda’s most accomplished and expert holistic therapists. As a follow-up to these speciality treatments, The Nautilus guests will benefit from an online consultation with an Ayurvedic physician so that the holistic benefits of the treatments will continue after their stay at The Nautilus. Ananda’s gourmet Ayurvedic cuisine is available to consume anywhere on the island, incorporating anti-inflammatory properties, with fundamental food tastes carefully combined with macronutrients.
With just 26 beach and oceanside houses and residences and an extensive range of facilities and spa amenities, the private island is surrounded by the natural beauty of Hanifaru Bay, one of the largest manta feeding hotspots in the world, with white sandy beaches, pristine waters and coral reefs. This extraordinary, tranquil location combined with an unmatched ultra-luxury five-star experience make The Nautilus the perfect private island resort to relax, reset and recharge.
Ananda in the Himalayas is one of the world’s leading luxury wellness retreats, aligning with the rejuvenating spirit of The Nautilus. Nestled in the Himalayan foothills, the birthplace of Ayurveda, Yoga and meditation, Ananda integrates these ancient practices with therapy and Oriental medicine. The partnership first launched in 2022 and this year’s iteration enhances the already extensive wellness offering with a series of curated experiences for guests looking to rebalance their body, soul and mind.
Specialty Treatments Offered by Ananda at The Nautilus:
- Ananda Touch with Reflexology (90 Mins): A rhythmic flowing massage with rose-scented oils that release tension and stress combined with the stimulation of reflex points on the feet, restoring energy flow to the whole body and creating balance within the body and mind.
- Indian Head Massage with Reflexology (90 Mins): This ancient experience relaxes, tones, and eases muscle tension in the neck, head, scalp and shoulders. It also aids in the elimination of toxins by stimulating circulation, followed by a massage on the feet with the application of pressure on the soles, restoring healthy energy flow throughout.
- Indian Head Massage with Shiatsu (90 Mins): A traditional massage which provides deep relaxation in neck, head, scalp, and shoulders, guiding toxins out while leaving you feeling revitalized. This is followed by Shiatsu – a full body pressure point experience improving circulation and boosting the immune system.
- Himalayan Honey and Rose Facial with Foot Massage (90 Mins): This stimulating and refreshing facial uses a blend of sandalwood and rose essential oils. Pure organic honey harvested from the Himalayas is massaged into the skin and a mask of cooling cucumber is applied. While the mask hydrates your skin, enjoy a soothing foot massage where reflex points are stimulated.
- Ananda Moksha (90 Mins): Ananda Moksha is a full body massage which uses traditional Ayurvedic therapeutic techniques used for thousands of years in India. The holistic therapy is inspired by the concept of Moksha which signifies a liberation of the senses and a release for free flow of Prana or energy.
To secure your wellness getaway contact The Nautilus at hello@thenautilusmaldives.com to reserve your ultra-luxe bohemian summer escape. For more information visit www.thenautilusmaldives.com.
Business
BBM Hulhumalé Phase 2 opening promotion winner receives Honda Airblade
Bestbuy Maldives (BBM) has presented a brand-new Honda Airblade motorbike to the winner of a lucky draw held to mark the opening of its newest wholesale outlet in Hulhumalé Phase 2.
The outlet, located at Lot 20286 on Nirolhu Magu, opened on 16 February 2026 as part of BBM’s expansion of its wholesale operations.
To celebrate the opening and thank customers for their continued support, BBM introduced a special lucky draw exclusively for customers who made purchases from the new outlet on its opening day.

Customers who purchased products during the opening were eligible to enter the draw, with a Honda Airblade motorbike offered as the grand prize.
The lucky draw was conducted on 13 August 2026, with Ibrahim Shifaz of Vagthun Vaguthah outlet selected as the winner.
Shifaz was recently presented with the ceremonial key to the Honda Airblade by AVS Subrahmanyam, Chief Operating Officer of Bestbuy Maldives.

The promotion formed part of BBM’s activities surrounding the opening of its Hulhumalé Phase 2 outlet, which provides customers with access to the company’s range of wholesale products from the growing residential and commercial area.
Bestbuy Maldives is a supplier and distributor serving businesses across the Maldives, including customers in the hospitality, food service and retail sectors.
Drink
The Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari Islands welcomes SUSHISAMBA Dubai for exclusive pop-up
SUSHISAMBA Dubai, the multi-award-winning dining destination perched 51 floors above The Palm Jumeirah, is taking its renowned energy to the shores of the Indian Ocean. From Friday, September 25 to Sunday, September 27 September 2026, SUSHISAMBA Dubai arrives at The Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari Islands for an exclusive three-night pop-up at EAU Bar, spotlighting Dubai’s thriving hospitality scene on an international stage.
Highlighting Dubai’s status as a global dining capital, this island takeover brings together two powerhouses of luxury hospitality. Running nightly from 7PM to 10PM with two dinner seatings, the pop-up features a curated dining experience led by Brand Chef Kitak Lee, brought to life by live performances from SUSHISAMBA’s iconic samba dancers, a signature element that made the venue one of Dubai’s most sought-after spots, for an unforgettable celebration by the sea.

Set against the pristine oceanfront backdrop of EAU Bar at The Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari Islands, a ultra-luxury resort known for its legendary Aris Meeha service, immersive Maldivian traditions, and world-class epicurean offerings across its island destinations, guests will experience SUSHISAMBA’s signature blend of Japanese, Brazilian, and Peruvian culture. The exclusive pop-up will feature a bespoke menu of signature dishes crafted with the highest standards of culinary artistry, complemented by SUSHISAMBA’s bar team serving craft cocktails infused with exotic ingredients.

“This collaboration marks an exciting milestone as we take the electric spirit and culinary excellence of SUSHISAMBA Dubai to one of the world’s most spectacular luxury destinations,” said Brand Chef Kitak Lee. “We look forward to bringing our signature blend of flavours, theatrical energy, and world- class hospitality to EAU Bar for three unforgettable nights.”

Whether dining under the stars or enjoying inventive mixology by the ocean, guests can expect an immersive journey defined by elevated dining, dynamic entertainment, and the unmistakable SUSHISAMBA spirit.

Event Details:
Venue: EAU Bar, at The Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari Islands
Dates: September 25–27 2026
Seating Schedule:
Friday, September 25:
- First Seating: 6:30 PM–8:30 PM
- Second Seating: 8:30 PM–10:30 PM
Saturday, September 26 & Sunday, September 27:
- First Seating: 6:30 PM–8:30 PM
- Second Seating: 8:30 PM–10:30 PM

For bookings and more information, please contact the reservations team at +960 400 0999 or maldives.reservations@ritzcarlton.com, or visit The Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari Islands website here.
Entertainment
Sun Siyam Olhuveli turns three islands into Carnival of the Isles this festive season
Forget the traditional festive getaway. This December, Sun Siyam Olhuveli, part of the Lifestyle Collection by Sun Siyam, is turning three interconnected islands into one vibrant celebration as Carnival of the Isles returns from 21 December 2026 to 8 January 2027. Bringing together world-class entertainment, island culture and unforgettable experiences, this year’s line-up is headlined by BBC Radio 1 and Radio 1Xtra’s Jeremiah Asiamah, alongside returning British Rapper & DJ Ironik, Canadian Belly Dancer Nourah, and LA-Based Performance Company Wildfire Arts.
Created exclusively for Sun Siyam Olhuveli, Carnival of the Isles reimagines the festive season through the vibrant lens of island life. More than a holiday programme, it transforms the resort into one continuous celebration where music, culture, food and adventure unfold across three unique islands, each with its own atmosphere yet connected through one unforgettable experience. From sunrise wellness sessions and family adventures to waterfront celebrations, beach clubs and after-dark entertainment, guests are invited to discover a festive escape that feels spontaneous, social and unmistakably Maldivian.

Leading this year’s entertainment programme is Jeremiah Asiamah, one of the UK’s most exciting DJs and broadcasters. Best known for his influential shows on BBC Radio 1 and BBC Radio 1Xtra, Jeremiah has become a defining voice in Afro House, Amapiano and global electronic music. From Glastonbury, Wireless Festival, Notting Hill Carnival and Ushuaïa Ibiza to collaborations with Prada Beauty, London Fashion Week and Arsenal F.C., his unique blend of music, fashion and culture has made him one of the UK’s most exciting creative talents. This festive season, he brings his signature festival energy to the shores of the Maldives with an exclusive series of performances for Carnival of the Isles.
Returning by popular demand is DJ Ironik, the British rapper, DJ and producer behind the Platinum-selling hit Tiny Dancer (Hold Me Closer) featuring Chipmunk and Elton John. Renowned for his crowd-pleasing sets that effortlessly blend chart favourites with club classics, Ironik returns to headline the resort’s biggest beach parties and New Year’s celebrations, keeping the energy high long after sunset.

Adding an entirely different dimension to this year’s programme is Nourah, the internationally acclaimed Canadian belly dancer whose performances combine the elegance of traditional Middle Eastern dance with contemporary artistry. Having captivated audiences at luxury resorts, international festivals and prestigious events around the world, her graceful performances bring a sense of theatre and cultural richness to the island’s festive evenings.
Completing the line-up is the return of Wildfire Arts, the Los Angeles-based performance company celebrated for transforming outdoor spaces into immersive theatrical experiences. Combining breathtaking aerial performances, fire artistry, LED productions and acrobatics, the internationally acclaimed troupe has appeared everywhere from global festivals to productions for organisations including SpaceX. At Carnival of the Isles, they will once again transform the beachfront into an unforgettable open-air stage.
At the heart of the celebrations is The Grand Carnival of the Isles, a spectacular weekly event that transforms the beachfront of the Beach Pavilions into one of the Maldives’ most exciting open-air entertainment experiences. Inspired by the colour, rhythm and energy of the world’s great island carnivals, guests can wander through lively street-style markets, discover roaming performers and live music, experience breathtaking circus acts, enjoy interactive games and family entertainment, or embrace the excitement of water sports before the celebration continues with sunset DJ sessions and unforgettable evenings beneath the stars.

The festive calendar extends far beyond the carnival itself, with signature experiences unfolding throughout the season. Guests can gather for the magical Christmas Tree Light-Up Ceremony, welcome Santa Claus as he makes his tropical arrival by the beach, raise a glass at the Christmas Gala Cocktail and celebrate together during the elegant New Year’s Eve Gala and spectacular countdown to 2027. Along the way, colourful moments such as the annual Olhuveli Colour Run, Kids Futsal League, international Street Market, beach parties, themed dining experiences, sunset cruises, wellness sessions, sports tournaments and family activities ensure there is always something new to discover from sunrise to starlight.
More than a festive escape, Carnival of the Isles is where music, culture and island life come together across three unforgettable weeks in the Maldives. Join the celebration at Sun Siyam Olhuveli and discover this year’s festive programme and special offers.
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